“Dictate” is a verb that means to give orders authoritatively or to control something with a commanding influence. It can also refer to saying something aloud for someone else to write down, such as a letter or a document. As a noun, “dictate” refers to a guiding principle, rule, or authoritative instruction. The term is often associated with power dynamics, control, and expression, whether in a formal or informal context
10 Sentences Using “Dictate”:
- The manager tried to dictate every detail of the project, leaving no room for creativity.
- Her conscience seemed to dictate her decisions, even when it was inconvenient.
- He dictated a letter to his assistant while preparing for the meeting.
- The rules of the competition dictate that all entries must be submitted by midnight.
- Economic trends often dictate how companies structure their marketing strategies.
- The teacher’s tone suggested she was trying to dictate rather than encourage.
- The weather will dictate whether we have the event indoors or outdoors.
- He had the confidence to dictate the terms of the agreement in his favor.
- The principles of justice should dictate how we treat others.
- The dictator’s power allowed him to dictate every aspect of the nation’s governance.
Synonyms of “Dictate”:
- Command
- Order
- Instruct
- Rule
- Prescribe
- Demand
- Govern
- Control
- Mandate
- Impose
Antonyms of “Dictate”:
- Follow
- Obey
- Request
- Suggest
- Comply
- Listen
- Yield
- Recommend
- Allow
- Submit
Related Words:
- Dictation
- Authority
- Control
- Rule
- Pronouncement
- Edict
- Direction
- Leadership
- Dominate
- Influence
Related Expressions:
- “Dictate terms” (to set the conditions for something).
- “Dictate the pace” (to control the speed or progress of something).
- “At the dictates of” (acting according to a principle or external command).
- “Dictate of reason” (a logical or moral guiding principle).
- “Dictated by necessity” (influenced by unavoidable circumstances).
Related Phrasal Verbs:
- “Lay down the law” (to dictate rules or expectations firmly).
- “Call the shots” (to dictate or make important decisions).
- “Write down” (to record what is being dictated).
- “Take down” (to transcribe something being dictated).
- “Give out” (to dictate orders or instructions).
Related Idioms:
- “Rule with an iron fist” (to dictate or govern harshly and strictly).
- “Have the final say” (to dictate the ultimate decision).
- “Bark orders” (to dictate in a commanding or harsh manner).
- “Run the show” (to dictate or control an event or process).
- “Pull the strings” (to dictate actions or decisions indirectly).
- “Call the tune” (to dictate how something should be done).
- “Lay down the rules” (to dictate or establish guidelines).
- “Dictate terms of engagement” (to establish rules for cooperation or negotiation).
- “Hold the reins” (to dictate or control a situation).
- “Set the agenda” (to dictate priorities or plans).